In researching specific risk factors recently, I discovered that "advanced age" is 65 or older. Say what? I'm less than a decade from entering advanced age? I thought reaching advanced age wouldn't happen until in the 80s. Maybe even the 90s. For some, I guess it could be 75 or so. But 65? This just can't be right! Fortunately, right after making this shocking and horrifying discovery, I happened upon Grandma Gatewood's Walk.Have you ever heard of Emma Gatewood? A few years before I was even born, this woman hiked the Appalachian Trail...when she was 67! Not only did she thru-hike the whole 2,000+ miles way back in 1955, she did it with just a few items stuffed in a homemade denim bag thrown over her shoulder.
Wearing Keds and packing a change of clothes and a few other necessities (she didn't even have a sleeping bag!), she's the first woman to make the journey and the fifth hiker to walk the trail end to end. And did I mention she was 67?
If that's not impressive enough, she actually thru-hiked the AT three times before she turned 76. Now that's a lot of walking!
A few years ago, I posted about Grace Small, the Hitchhiking Grandmother. These women are such an inspiration! Not that I aspire to follow in their footsteps, mind you. But it sure reinforces that age doesn't have to dictate what you can accomplish and "advanced age" at 65 is just a bunch of BS.
NOTE: Book image is an affiliate link. As I've said before, this is the easiest way I know to include photos in blog posts. If you're signed up with Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for free like I did. Otherwise, check your local library.
Crystal, I first have to say, I’m glad you’re posting again. Secondly, advanced age at 65??? Really? I’m in my 50’s and I’m just getting warmed up. I’m not so sure folks will be able to keep up with me when I hit 65!
ReplyDeleteI just requested the book from my local library and can’t wait until it comes in so I can read it.
It’s a shame that our youth-oriented society is so caught up on age. I love getting older, and if people would stop trying to fight father time, they would love it too.
Thanks for the heads up on the book.
I love your attitude, Felicia - I'm also just getting warmed up. So many people have done so many great things after 50 - I can't wait to see what's in store for us!
ReplyDeleteI know you'll enjoy the book. One of the things that kept me in a state of awe is how little prepared she was for such a journey. I'm talking no map, no concrete idea of where she'd stay, no extra food, no backup plan - I like to know more of what to expect when I travel. But maybe that cuts down on the adventure...